Connecticut and Massachusetts Solar Incentives in 2026: Why Your Town and Street Matter
Earthlight Technologies • November 9, 2026
Connecticut and Massachusetts Solar Incentives in 2026: Why Your Town and Street Matter
Which solar incentives are still available in 2026? For homeowners in Connecticut and Massachusetts, the answer has become much more local. There is no longer one sweeping incentive that applies to everyone. Instead, state and local incentives can change based on your income, your town, and in some cases even your street.
What Changed at the Federal Level
The federal residential clean energy tax credit, which let homeowners claim a credit for buying a solar system, is no longer available for systems installed after 2025. Read more in our post on the solar investment tax credit changes. That makes state and local programs more important than ever.
Connecticut Incentives Based on Your Town and Income
Connecticut's Residential Renewable Energy Solutions program includes an income eligible adder and a distressed municipality adder on top of the base incentive. That means two homeowners with similar systems can receive different incentives. For example, a homeowner in New Britain may qualify for an added incentive that a homeowner in Farmington does not. Town classifications are set by the state and are not always what homeowners expect.
Grid Edge Battery Incentives Can Vary by Street
Battery incentives through Connecticut's Energy Storage Solutions program also depend on location. As of April 1, 2026, residential customers on grid edge circuits can receive an enrollment incentive of $130 per kWh, compared with $30 per kWh for other customers, according to the Connecticut Green Bank. Grid edge circuits are those with the most frequent and longest outages during major storms. Because eligibility follows your utility circuit, one street may qualify while another in the same town does not. Ongoing performance payments are also higher for underserved and low income customers. Learn more in our Connecticut battery incentive guide.
Massachusetts and Oregon Incentives
Massachusetts has its own state programs, including the SMART solar incentive program. Oregon homeowners can review our guide to Oregon solar incentives.
Not sure what you qualify for? Contact Earthlight or call (860) 871-9700. Our consultants will check which incentives apply to your specific address in Connecticut or Massachusetts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there still a federal solar tax credit for homeowners in 2026?
No, the federal residential clean energy tax credit for homeowner owned solar is no longer available for systems installed after 2025. Homeowners in Connecticut and Massachusetts can still take advantage of state and local programs, which often depend on income, town, and location. An Earthlight consultant can review what applies to you.
What is a grid edge battery incentive in Connecticut?
A grid edge incentive is a higher battery incentive for homes on utility circuits with the most frequent and longest storm outages. Through Connecticut's Energy Storage Solutions program, grid edge residential customers can receive $130 per kWh at enrollment, compared with $30 per kWh for other customers, as of April 2026.
How do I know if my town qualifies for a higher solar incentive?
The easiest way to find out is to ask your solar installer to check your address. Connecticut offers an added incentive for homes in distressed municipalities, and the state sets which towns qualify. The list does not always match what homeowners expect, so it is worth checking even if you think your town will not qualify.
Are there solar incentives for low and moderate income households?
Yes, Connecticut offers added incentives for income eligible households. The residential solar program includes an income eligible adder, and the Energy Storage Solutions program pays higher performance incentives to underserved and low income customers. Eligibility rules vary, so an Earthlight consultant can help you understand your options and what documentation may be needed.
Does Massachusetts offer solar incentives in 2026?
Yes, Massachusetts offers state solar programs, including the SMART solar incentive program. Like Connecticut, eligibility and incentive amounts can depend on your location and utility. Program rules change over time, so it is best to confirm current details before you sign. Contact Earthlight to review the Massachusetts programs that apply to your home.
